Ina Garten’s Creamed Onions are a rich and comforting side dish, perfect for holiday meals or special occasions. Tender pearl onions are enveloped in a velvety cream sauce, enhanced with a touch of nutmeg and Parmesan cheese for a luxurious flavor.

What are Barefoot Contessa Creamed Onions?

Creamed Onions is a classic dish featuring pearl onions simmered in a creamy, buttery sauce. Ina Garten’s version elevates the recipe with her signature touch of simple elegance, adding cheese and spices to create a side dish that’s both nostalgic and refined.

Other Popular Recipes

Reasons to Try Barefoot Contessa Creamed Onions

Rich and Decadent: A creamy sauce makes this dish irresistible.
Perfect for Holidays: A classic side dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special meal.
Simple Yet Elegant: Made with minimal ingredients but delivers maximum flavor.
Versatile: Pairs beautifully with roast meats or vegetarian mains.

Ingredients Needed to Make Barefoot Contessa Creamed Onions

Pearl onions – 2 pounds, peeled (frozen or fresh)
Unsalted butter – 4 tbsp
All-purpose flour – 3 tbsp
Whole milk – 2 cups, warmed
Heavy cream – ½ cup
Grated Parmesan cheese – ½ cup
Ground nutmeg – ⅛ tsp
Salt and freshly ground black pepper – to taste
Optional garnish: Fresh parsley or thyme

Instructions to Prepare Barefoot Contessa Creamed Onions

Prepare the Onions:
- If using fresh pearl onions, blanch them in boiling water for 2 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath. Peel by trimming the root end and squeezing the onion gently to remove the skin.
- If using frozen pearl onions, thaw them according to package instructions.
Cook the Onions:
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the peeled onions for 8-10 minutes, or until tender. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cream Sauce:
In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Gradually add the warmed milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
Add Seasonings:
Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to combine the flavors.
Combine Onions and Sauce:
Add the cooked onions to the cream sauce and stir gently to coat. Simmer on low heat for 5 minutes to heat through and melt the flavors.
Serve:
Transfer the creamed onions to a serving dish and garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired. Serve warm.

What Goes Well With Barefoot Contessa Creamed Onions?

Roast Turkey or Chicken: A classic pairing for holiday dinners.
Prime Rib or Beef Tenderloin: Complements the richness of roasted meats.
Mashed Potatoes: Another creamy side to round out the meal.
Stuffing or Dressing: Adds texture and depth to the plate.

Key Tips for Making Barefoot Contessa Creamed Onions

Use Fresh or Frozen Onions: Fresh pearl onions are ideal, but frozen ones save time and effort.
Warm the Milk: Warming the milk before adding to the roux prevents lumps and ensures a smooth sauce.
Adjust Thickness: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it.
Enhance the Flavor: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of white wine for extra depth.
Prepare Ahead: Make the dish a day ahead and reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Creative Variations of Barefoot Contessa Creamed Onions

Add Bacon: Stir in crumbled bacon for a smoky twist.
Top with Breadcrumbs: Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs on top for a crispy finish.
Include Cheese: Use Gruyère or Fontina instead of Parmesan for a different flavor.
Make It Lighter: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a slightly lighter dish.
Add Herbs: Incorporate thyme, sage, or rosemary for a herby note.

Storage Guidelines for Barefoot Contessa Creamed Onions

Refrigerate leftovers: Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat Gently: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or cream if the sauce thickens too much.
Freezing Not Recommended: The creamy sauce may separate when frozen, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Nutrition Value

Calories: ~250 per serving
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fats: 18g
Calcium: ~15% of the daily value

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Creamed Onions are a timeless side dish that’s perfect for elevating your holiday meals. With their creamy texture and rich flavor, these onions add a touch of indulgence to any table. Easy to prepare and endlessly satisfying, this recipe is a must-try for your next festive gathering. Enjoy the comforting taste of this classic dish!

More Ina Garten Recipes